Dubai, Sports Director (10 PQE plus), In House / inhouse within Sports & Entertainment
Join to apply for the Dubai, Sports Director (10 PQE plus), In House / inhouse within Sports & Entertainment role at The Lawyer Events.
Employer: Ellis‑Wake | Location: UAE | Salary: N/A | Closing date: 10 Dec 2025 | Reference: EW/3000.1 | Vacancy type: Solicitors, Private Practice, In‑House | Experience Level: Mid Level, Partner‑designate, Partner, Management/Head of Department | Contract: Permanent | Hours: Full Time | Practice Areas: Banking/Finance, Energy, PPP/PFI/Commercial projects | PQE: 7+ Years, Partner.
This is an exclusive and new opportunity for 2026, following the placement of a projects director. We are seeking a senior in‑house sports lawyer with 10+ PQE, ideally based in the UK, US, or Australia, who has exposure to GCC sports work and especially KSA sports work. You will report directly to the senior director, driving the department and business line forward.
Responsibilities: You will be responsible for all legal aspects within the department, including sector restructuring and regulatory framework across the GCC. The KSA region is fundamental and experience here will be a plus. You will lead a team of Arabic and English‑speaking lawyers, build a team with that in mind, and advise on all sports‑related issues, entertainment law (contracts, intellectual property, sponsorship, media rights, regulatory compliance), and day‑to‑day contract drafting, reviewing, and negotiation. You will engage with national football teams, FIFA, the AFC, and focus on the commercial legal aspects of sports to drive business growth.
Qualifications: 10+ PQE, proven experience in sports and entertainment law in the GCC region (particularly KSA), strong team‑leadership skills, bilingual (English/Arabic) preference, and ability to navigate complex regulatory environments.
Based in the City of London, Dan Wake is the owner of one of the longest‑serving legal recruitment agencies in London and the South East of England, Ellis‑Wake. He regularly advises clients on the complexity of the legal market and is a known connector and influencer. He has recruited successfully across all of the legal landscape since 2004.
If this role is of interest please contact Dan Wake (Director) in confidence at dan.wake@elliswake.com or call (+44) 7894 085 790.
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